“It is such a welcoming, wonderful, non-judgmental atmosphere for families to come and learn and connect and just spend quality time together,” she said.

“It’s meeting a need for companionship and support and is filling a real niche here in Rimbey.”

Donnie Tafts, family service co-ordinator for Central Parkland Parent Link which includes Rimbey, Lacombe, Ponoka and Wetaskiwin, said there are 180 parent links in the province.

She noted the programs offered through the Parent Links are important to all families.

“It is an intense time to be a parent of a young child,” she said. “It (Parent Link) is a great resource for connecting families with their community and a great resource for helping parents engage with their children and have fun together. We very much support the parent/child bond.”

In Rimbey, Parent Link is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays as well as some evenings for special programs.

Marvelous moms is being held until March 30 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. This is a fun and informative discussion group and childcare is provided. For more info or to register call 403-843-2030.

On Wednesdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. the program L is for literacy will be offered until March 25. This is a drop-in program for children two and older and their parent/caregiver.

On Thursdays free unstructured play for parents and young children ages six and under is offered.

And on the last Friday of every month from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. a drop in program for parents/caregivers and their children is offered.

Rimbey Parent Link is held in the Provincial building. Staff includes Sansome and programmer Kathleen Beagle.